1

Water Commissioner Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Appeal Group

Corona, NY · On-site

$19.25 - $25.25/hr

DEP's water supply system is comprised of 19 reservoirs and 3 controlled lakes throughout the ... Importantly, all responses should reflect the position of the Deputy Commissioner, and analyses ...

Showing results 41-60

Water Commissioner information

See salary details

$14

$22

$34

How much do water commissioner jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for water commissioner in the United States is $22.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.75 and $25.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a water commissioner?

Water Commissioners are officials responsible for overseeing the management and distribution of water resources within a specific jurisdiction, such as a city, county, or water district. Their duties often include ensuring water quality, maintaining infrastructure, setting policies for water usage, and sometimes resolving disputes related to water rights. They may also work on long-term planning for water conservation, emergency response to water shortages, and compliance with local, state, and federal regulations. Water Commissioners play a key role in safeguarding the community’s access to clean and reliable water supplies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a water commissioner?

To thrive as a Water Commissioner, you need a solid background in water resource management, environmental policy, and often a degree in civil engineering, hydrology, or public administration. Familiarity with regulatory compliance systems, geographic information systems (GIS), and water quality monitoring tools is typically required. Strong leadership, negotiation, and problem-solving skills are essential for coordinating among stakeholders and addressing community needs. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensuring sustainable water management, regulatory compliance, and effective service delivery to the public.

What are some common challenges faced by a water commissioner, and how can they be addressed?

Water Commissioners often face challenges such as balancing water resource allocation among various stakeholders, ensuring compliance with local and federal regulations, and responding to droughts or water shortages. Effective communication and collaboration with governmental agencies, local communities, and technical staff are crucial for resolving disputes and implementing sustainable water management practices. Staying current with regulatory changes and investing in professional development can help Water Commissioners address these challenges proactively.

What is the difference between Water Commissioner vs Water Treatment Plant Operator?

AspectWater CommissionerWater Treatment Plant Operator
Required CredentialsVaries by region; often includes certifications or licenses related to water managementTypically requires a state license or certification in water treatment
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, overseeing water distribution systems, administrative dutiesIndoor plant environment, operating treatment equipment
Employer & Industry UsageMunicipal water departments, government agenciesWater treatment facilities, municipal or private water companies

The Water Commissioner primarily oversees water distribution and management, often with administrative responsibilities, while the Water Treatment Plant Operator focuses on operating and maintaining water treatment equipment. Both roles require certifications related to water systems and are integral to water services, but they differ in daily tasks and work environments.

Do you need a degree to be a water commissioner?

A water commissioner typically does not need a college degree, but relevant experience in water management, public administration, or engineering can be beneficial. Some positions may require knowledge of local water systems and regulatory compliance, and certifications or training in water treatment or management are often preferred.

How do you become a water commissioner?

To become a water commissioner, candidates typically need to meet local eligibility requirements, which may include residency and age criteria. The role often requires knowledge of water management, public service, and sometimes passing an election or appointment process. Relevant experience or education in public administration, engineering, or environmental science can be beneficial.
More about Water Commissioner jobs

What states have the most Water Commissioner jobs?

States with the most job openings for Water Commissioner jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Water Commissioner jobs?

For Water Commissioner jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Water Commissioner job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,210 per year, or $22.7 per hour.

DIRECTOR OF THE WINNIPESAUKEE RIVER BASIN PROGRAM

Franklin, NH • On-site

State of New Hampshire
Public Administration • 5 - 10K employees

$108K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Posted 20 days ago


State Of New Hampshire rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 43 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 50 rated states


Job description

State of New Hampshire Job Posting
DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES
COMMISSIONER'S OFFICE
29 HAZEN DRIVE, CONCORD NH 03301
DIRECTOR OF THE WINNIPESAUKEE RIVER BASIN PROGRAM
Position # 9U804
Salary Range - $108,170 to $150,849
*See total compensation information at the bottom of announcement.
The mission of the Department of Environmental Services (NHDES) is to help sustain a high quality of life for all citizens by protecting and restoring the environment and public health in New Hampshire and fostering the proper management of water, air, and land resources for future generations. The NHDES is looking for a Senior Level leader to oversee the Winnipesaukee River Basin Program wastewater treatment plant and collection system. This is a high impact, foundational role requiring exceptional managerial and technical fluency, and the responsibility of carrying out the directives of the NHDES Commissioner and Assistant Commissioner.
The Winnipesaukee River Basin Program (WRBP) is the state-owned sewer system serving portions of the New Hampshire Lakes Region communities of Center Harbor, Moultonborough, Gilford, Meredith, Laconia, Belmont, Sanbornton, Northfield, Tilton and Franklin. The WRBP's wastewater collection and treatment facilities, including a treatment plant in Franklin and a maintenance facility in Laconia, are operated by NHDES employees on behalf of the communities benefiting from the facilities' services. The staffing include 25 positions and annual budget is about $8 million.
Senate Bill 592 created this position in 2026, stating "There is established in the office of the commissioner the unclassified position of director of the Winnipesaukee River Basin Program (WRBP). The director shall be qualified to hold the position by reason of education and experience, and shall perform such duties as the commissioner from time to time may authorize. The director shall be responsible for the operations and maintenance of the WRPB as well as the execution of all programs and projects."
Ideal candidates should have a working knowledge of treatment works, infrastructure management and project design and implementation. Candidates should have experience creating and managing budgets. A key part of the job is to establish and maintain a positive organizational culture and to increase the ability of the organization to execute needed improvements. Other skills and experience should include creative problem solving, effective communication with external stakeholders, managing change, evaluating internal processes and mentoring employees.
Well qualified candidates will have a baccalaureate or master's degree from an accredited college or university in an environmental, engineering or construction related field. Professional Engineer licensure and wastewater operator certification is preferred. The candidates should have a minimum of five or more years of experience as a senior administrator, responsible for the administration of complex projects, programs and budgets, preferably related to public works, a proven focus on building a culture of excellence and the ability to work effectively with staff and key stakeholders.
This unclassified/appointed position is assigned to Group JJ of the state unclassified salary schedule (currently $108,170 to $150,700). Once confirmed by G&C, the selected candidate serves a four-year term, and then be eligible for re-appointment consideration and confirmation to a subsequent four-year term. Resumes and confidential inquiries should be directed no later than September 20, 2026 to Ted Diers, Assistant Director of the Water Division, at 603-271-2951or at THEODORE.E.DIERS@des.nh.gov.
The State of NH total compensation package features an outstanding set of employee benefits, including:
HMO or POS Medical and Prescription Drug Benefits:
The actual value of State-paid health benefits and the amount of employee health benefit contributions may vary depending on the type of plan selected and the bargaining unit with which a position is associated.
See this link for details on State-paid health benefits:
https://www.das.nh.gov/hr/benefits.aspx
Value of State's share of Employee's Retirement: 12.87% of pay
Other Benefits:
*Dental Plan at minimal cost for employees and their families ($500-$1800 value)
* Flexible Spending healthcare and childcare reimbursement accounts
*State defined benefit retirement plan and Deferred Compensation 457(b) plan
*Work/life balance flexible schedules, paid holidays and generous leave plan
*$50,000 state-paid life insurance plus additional low-cost group life insurance
*Incentive-based Wellness Program (ability to earn up to $500)
Total Compensation Statement Worksheet:
https://www.das.nh.gov/jobsearch/compensation-calculator.aspx
Want the specifics? Explore the Benefits of State Employment on our website:
https://www.das.nh.gov/hr/documents/BenefitBrochure.pdf
https://www.das.nh.gov/hr/index.aspx
EOE
TDD Access: Relay NH 1-800-735-2964

What State Of New Hampshire employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom